Chapter 6
Fiber Optics Diagnostics (TRACETEK)
TROUBLESHOOTING WITH TRACETEK
TRACETEK can be an invaluable tool for troubleshooting a variety of network
problems. One application is to locate a break in a cable. In a new installation,
TRACETEK can be used with a power meter/light source test kit such as FIBERTEK to
characterize a link and map the distance to known events.
In this example we’re testing a backbone link consisting of 44 m of cross-connect
cable to a 717 m backbone, followed by another 40 m of cross-connect. Figure A is the
FIBERTEK (power meter/light source) result from the link indicating a passing result.
In Figure B, we see the connectors at 40 m and 760 m, as well as the end of the fiber
at 801m. The connectors at 40 m and 760 m appear to be in good condition with a
reflection that is just below half scale.
Figure A
Figure B
Figures C and D show the same link failing. The FIBERTEK screen tells the degree of
link failure but it does not help isolate the problem. TRACETEK screen (Figure D)
shows the connector at 761 m is nearly full scale, an indication that it has become
dirty or damaged.
Figure
C
Figure
D
In this situation, the best course of action is to clean the connection at 760 m and
check it with a microscope (IDEAL P/N 45-332) before re-testing. Consult the
instructions included with the IDEAL Starter Cleaning Kit for the best methods to clean
connectors and couplers.
6-10
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